GAPS Guidelines GAP.11.3.1.1.

A Publication of Global Asset Protection Services LLC

HEAT DETECTION FOR

HIGH TEMPERATURE ENVIRONMENTS

INTRODUCTION
Occasionally it is necessary to install some type of heat detection inside an oven or other piece of
process equipment where the normal ambient temperature exceeds the “extra high” temperature
classification corresponding to maximum ceiling temperature of 305°F (152°C) from Table 17.6.2.1. of
NFPA 72.
This section provides guidance for selecting automatic fire detectors for use in high temperature
environments.

POSITION
Choose detectors that are listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
Use fixed temperature heat-sensing fire detectors. While an oven or other piece of equipment is being
brought up to operating temperature, the temperature differential slope of rate compensation or rate-
of-rise detectors can be exceeded, causing false alarms.
Fixed temperature heat-sensing fire detectors are either line-type or spot-type. Listed fixed
o o
temperature heat-sensing detectors are manufactured in the above 305 F (152 C) “Extra High”
temperature classification and are generally line-type. Some of these line-type detectors are listed for
“Very Extra High” or “Ultra High” temperature classification. There are currently some listed spot-type
or line type fixed temperature heat-sensing detectors in the “Extra High”, or higher, temperature
classification. Proper selection and installation of these is a key area to the operation of this type of
system.
Follow the provisions of NFPA 72 for installation. Use detection system wiring suitable for the
elevated ambient temperature. Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions for line-type fixed
temperature heat sensing detectors, if they are used in an application other than open area design.

DISCUSSION
There are some factors to consider when evaluating line-type fixed temperature heat-sensing fire
detectors in an equipment protection design. The basic principle of this type of detection is melting of
the insulation to cause electrical contact across the wires or fusing of the wires at the designated
fixed temperature. The detection wires typically need to be replaced to re-activate the fire detection
system for the equipment or process being protected. Two negative factors would be the cost of
replacement and the extended impairment of the fire detection system.
In a case where listed fixed temperature fire detectors are not manufactured to satisfy the criteria for
a high temperature equipment protection scenario, it might be necessary for the owner and/or
contractor to design a properly engineered installation utilizing non-listed heat detection devices, such
as thermocouples or similar devices. Negative factors anticipated with use of non-listed detection

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 GAP.11.3.1.1.1

devices would be higher maintenance cost, more frequent replacement of detectors, false alarms,
etc.
Submit the details of this heat detection system proposed for high temperature environments to the
nearest GAPS office for review:
Global Asset Protection Services LLC
Plan Review
19885 Detroit Road #316
Rocky River, OH 44116

Global Asset Protection Services LLC

Level 18
1 Margaret Street
Suite 1801
Sydney NSW 2000
or
Global Asset Protection Services LLC
Lyoner Strasse 20
60528 Frankfurt
Germany

GAPS Guidelines
2 A Publication of Global Asset Protection Services LLC